Hiking The Akamas

The MOST popular hiking trail in Cyprus.

Sunday 31 July 2016 04:45 GMT

Akamas is the easternmost point of the three major flora zones of Europe, therefore the number of plant species found here runs up to 600, of which 35 are endemic. The variety of fauna is also impressive: 168 bird species, 12 mammals, 20 reptiles and butterfly species of which the endemic Glaucopsyche pafos butterfly is said to be the symbol of the area.

Akamas is situated at the westernmost point of Cyprus. According to one version, the area took its name from the Greek mythological hero Akamas, son of Theseus who came to Cyprus after the Trojan War and founded Akamantis. Akamas was also the place where Aphrodite and Adonis had their love trysts. It is an area of incomparable natural beauty.

Aphrodite Trail (circular)

Starting point: Baths of Aphrodite. The section between the Baths and Pyrgos tis Rigainas (the Castle of Regina) is shared with the Adonis trail. The trail follows a rising path to the hill known as Moutti tis Sotiras (370m) and this can be quite tiring, especially in summer. There are springs with drinking water at two points,one at Pyrgos tis Rigainas (the Castle of Regina) and the other at Kefalovrisia.

Length: 7.5 kms Time: 3 hours

Points of interest: The baths of Aphrodite where, according to tradition, the Goddess of Love used to bathe. Ruins of the Castle of Regina, which are believed to have belonged to a medieval monastery. It is worth mentioning the huge centuries-old oak tree which can be seen at the picnic site, where drinking water is also available. Along the trail there are several points which give a view of Polis Chrysochous and the Pafos Forest.

Adonis Trail (circular)

Starting point: Baths of Aphrodite. Like Aphrodite Trail, the walk can be quite tiring. Two springs of drinking water can be found at Pyrgos tis Rigainas and Kefalovrisia.

Length: 7.5 kms Time: 3 hours

Points of interest: From the western part there is a view of various beaches of Akamas, such as Lara Bay, Tzioni, Karavopetres, etc.

Smigies Trail (circular)

Starting point: Smigies picnic site, 2.5 kms from Neo Chorio

Length: (a) short route 2.5 kms Time: (a) short route 1 hour

Length: (b) long route 5 kms Time: (b) long route 2 hours

Points of interest: View to the east of Polis Chrysochous Bay, Latsi, Pachyammos and Pafos Forest, and to the west Lara Bay, Tzioni, Karavopetres, etc.

Pissouromouttis Trail (circular)

Starting point: Smigies picnic site

Length: 3 kms Time: 1 1/2 hours

Points of interest: Rich growth of Juniper Phoenicia, pistacia, etc. Views of Polis Bay to the northeast and beaches of Akamas to the west.